Edmonton’s notorious winter parking bans might soon come with more teeth as city officials explore stronger enforcement options. After years of mixed compliance during major snowfalls, the possibility of towing vehicles during seasonal parking restrictions is gaining serious consideration at City Hall.
The current system, which relies heavily on ticketing, hasn’t achieved the compliance levels needed for efficient snow clearing. Many Edmontonians have experienced the frustration of snow-clogged residential streets where parked vehicles become obstacles for plows trying to clear our neighborhoods.
“The reality is that tickets alone haven’t been enough to keep streets clear during major snow events,” says Ward Métis Councillor Ashley Salvador, who has championed the review of enforcement options. “When vehicles remain parked during bans, it creates safety hazards and significantly reduces the effectiveness of our snow clearing efforts.”
The city’s administration is now preparing a comprehensive report examining various enforcement models, including the potential implementation of a towing system similar to those used in Calgary and Winnipeg. This approach would allow for the physical removal of vehicles that impede snow clearing operations.
Branch Manager Craig McKeown acknowledges the complexity of the issue: “We’re looking at all options, including partnerships with towing companies and examining what capacity we currently have within our fleet. This isn’t just about enforcement—it’s about creating a system that works for a winter city like Edmonton.”
The proposed changes come after several challenging winter seasons where compliance with parking bans has hovered around 60 percent, according to city estimates. Each vehicle left on the street during clearing operations creates a snow ridge that can become hazardous for drivers and pedestrians alike.
The conversation around towing isn’t new to Edmonton. In February 2023, a similar discussion emerged following a particularly difficult snow clearing cycle. However, concerns about available towing capacity and implementation logistics led to a delay in advancing the idea.
For many residents in mature neighborhoods with limited off-street parking, the prospect of towing raises legitimate concerns. Jennifer Kostyk, president of the Ritchie Community League, explains the dilemma: “In older neighborhoods like ours, many homes don’t have garages or driveways. Residents want to comply with parking bans, but sometimes there’s literally nowhere else to put their vehicles.”
The upcoming report will need to address these neighborhood-specific challenges while still finding ways to improve overall snow clearing effectiveness. Administration is exploring various options, including the designation of temporary parking areas during bans and potential exemption processes for residents with limited alternatives.
Any new enforcement system would also need to consider communication improvements. The current notification system, which relies on the city’s website, social media channels, and road signage, doesn’t always reach all residents effectively.
“Whatever enforcement approach we take, we need to ensure everyone knows when bans are in effect,” says Salvador. “Enhanced communication needs to be part of the solution.”
The administration’s report is expected to be presented to City Council this fall, potentially in time for implementation before the 2024-2025 winter season. The report will include cost implications, logistical considerations, and recommendations based on best practices from other winter cities.
As Edmonton continues to grow, finding the right balance between enforcement and accommodation remains challenging. What’s clear is that the status quo isn’t working optimally, and some form of enhanced enforcement appears inevitable.
For now, Edmontonians should stay tuned for public engagement opportunities as the city develops its recommendations. After all, effective snow clearing benefits everyone navigating our winter streets—whether by car, bus, bike or foot.
